1854 Seated Liberty Half Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1854 Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Seated Liberty Half Dollars 1839-1891 series. In 1854, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and New Orleans Mints with a combined mintage of 8.2 million. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole surmounted by a Phrygian liberty cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons. Struck during the California Gold Rush era, when vast quantities of western gold transformed the American economy and led to new denominations. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.44 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have identified one known die variety for this date (shattered die). Across its variants, estimated values range from $83 to $1.9K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $71K in PR67 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Thomas Sully/Christian Gobrecht.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(3)
1854 (O) Seated Liberty Half Dollar
1854 Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollar - Arrows
1854 Seated Liberty Half Dollar
Other Base Coins in This Series
Collector Essentials
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